Why is your washing machine taking so long to wash?

If you find yourself getting frustrated by your washing machine taking longer than anticipated to finish its cycle, you’ll be pleased to know that it might be down to several possible causes that can be relatively easily remedied without the need to call the repairman.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the technical and practical considerations that may be extending your machine’s washing times.

Overloading your washing machine is perhaps the most common cause of prolonged wash times. Cramming too many items into the drum of either a front loader or top load washer not only extends the overall washing time but also results in a lower quality wash. When the machine is overloaded, clothes have less room to move, hindering the detergent's distribution and impeding the thorough cleaning process. Overloading the machine can also prevent it from completing the spin cycle.

For a faster and better wash, stick to the recommended load capacity specified in your washing machine’s manual. It’s also good to try and distribute items evenly, separating heavy and light fabrics, and avoiding tightly packed loads. This can not only improve the quality of the wash, but also promote the longevity of your washer.

Your washing machine needs adequate water pressure for the laundry detergent to dissolve effectively. Issues such as low water pressure or a clogged water inlet valve can result in insufficient water flow into the machine and slow filling of the drum, compromising the wash quality.

By regularly checking for clogs and ensuring the inlet valve is functioning correctly, you should be able to maintain consistent water pressure. If you’re not able to remedy the issue with a spot of DIY, you may need to contact a plumber or appliance repair tradesperson.

The type and amount of detergent you use for your wash can affect cycle duration. Using too much laundry detergent, for example, can result in slower wash cycles, because the machine can take longer to rinse out the excess soap. The surplus detergent can also accumulate in various parts of the machine, such as the drum and dispensers, leading to residue buildup over time that can hinder the machine’s performance.

If you have a front load washer, use a high-efficiency (HE) detergent and rather than estimating how much to use, measure out the recommended quantity. If you have a top loader, make sure you use a detergent that's specially formulated for this type of machine.

HE detergents are designed to produce fewer suds, which is crucial for front-loading and high-efficiency top-loading machines. These machines use less water, and excessive suds can lead to issues such as poor rinsing and potential damage to the machine.

Regular detergents, on the other hand, are formulated to create more suds, and are suitable for traditional top-loading machines that use more water. Using regular detergent in a high-efficiency machine may lead to excessive bubbles that can impact the machine's performance.

It’s all too easy to fall into a routine of selecting the same wash cycle, regardless of what you’re washing. Some worn, but visibly clean, work clothes don’t need the same wash cycle as a muddy soccer kit though. It’s worth remembering, therefore, that different settings on your washer can also affect washing times.

While heavily soiled items need a robust and more time-consuming setting, selecting a quick wash for lightly soiled items can significantly reduce the cycle duration.

A clean and well-maintained washing machine is more likely to run efficiently. To help your washer keep running smoothly, there are a few practical maintenance steps you can easily follow.

Newer washing machines often boast advanced features that can significantly impact cycle times, enhancing both efficiency and convenience. If your washer is out of warranty, several years old and regularly experiences problems, it could be more cost-effective to replace it than to pay for professional repair. Features of modern washers, like sensor-driven cycles, quick wash options, and energy-efficient settings, can not only reduce washing times, but also contribute to lower electricity bills.

If you’re concerned about longer wash cycles potentially also costing you more in terms of energy and money, you’ll be pleased to know that this isn’t necessarily the case. You may assume that a shorter cycle would use less energy because the machine’s running for less time, but this isn’t always the case. While convenient, some shorter cycles may have higher energy consumption if they use higher temperatures to achieve a thorough wash in a faster time compared to a cold water wash or use higher speeds during the washing machine spin cycle.

While routine maintenance and adjustments can resolve many common problems, complex issues may require a trained technician. If your best efforts at troubleshooting don’t have the desired effect, it could be time to put the pliers away and call the professionals.

If your washer regularly has problems and is over a certain number of years old, however, it might be time to replace it with a more water- and energy-efficient new model rather than throw money away on washing machine repairs.

A slow laundry cycle can be very frustrating, especially if you need to put the damp load into the dryer or hang it up before leaving the house or attending to other commitments. By following some of these tips for loading, cleaning and maintaining the machine, and using appropriate wash cycles and spin speeds, detergent and settings, you may be able to get things moving a little faster. 

If your current washer has performed its last soak and spin, check out the latest washing machines at Appliances Online, from a huge range of brands including LG, Samsung, Westinghouse and Whirlpool. With competitive prices, as well as high Energy Star and Water Star ratings, you’ll be spoilt for choice. If you need some pointers on choosing the right type or size machine for your home, read our Laundry Buying Guide.

Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery reaches 95% of Australia's population, and if it’s in stock you’ll usually receive your new washing machine the day after ordering (Mon-Fri). We also offer paid Same Day Delivery in metro NSW, Qld and Vic on weekday orders placed by 12pm. We’ll even take your old washer away to be recycled, at no charge, if you like. If you have any questions, call us 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.